THERE has been shock at vandalism caused to a number of trees surrounding Crediton’s Town Square, it is believed before 8am this morning, Tuesday, June 9.

Branches are this evening still strewn across large areas under the trees where they have been lopped without permission.

The trees have been cared for, for many years on behalf of Crediton Town Council, by Crediton garden and tree expert Bert Jewell.

Mr Jewell went to care for the flowers in the Town Council planters this morning and said he was “shocked” and “quite upset” to see the damage caused to the trees.

“I couldn’t believe it when I saw it,” said Bert.

“I have been praised by the Britain in Bloom judges who said the trees were well maintained, and now this has happened,” he added.

Mid Devon District Council confirmed that it did not lop the trees and no permission had been given for any such actions to take place.

Mr Jewell said that in the near future he was planning to trim the trees so that they are lifted off people’s heads but said it was wrong that they had been cut so harshly.

The public is advised that the branches are currently causing a trip hazard and not to walk through the debris.

Crediton Town Council and Mid Devon District Council, as well as Crediton Police, have been informed of the damage.

If you know who damaged the trees, please contact the police using the 101 number.